All Images credit Tobu Railway
Japan is one of the most fascinating destinations to explore. From its culture rich with pagodas, samurais, and geishas to its natural beauty of cherry blossoms, mountains, and gorgeous lakes. It is a country of many great cosmopolitan centers such as its most notable, Tokyo. There is so much to do and see in Tokyo and beyond that will ensure visitors an unforgettable holiday in Japan.
Japan is made up of 47 prefectures which are akin to states or territories. Kanto, where Tokyo is located, is the most populated. While 70 miles to the north is another fascinating destination, Nikko. Although much less famous than Tokyo, it is also alluring, rich with national parks, naturally warm water onsens, and one of the most impressive temples in the country. These two destinations and the many locations in between are filled with exciting experiences worthy of a visit to Japan. Getting from one place to the next could not be more convenient via the high-tech and efficient Tobu Railway.
Visiting the TOKYO SKYTREE
One of the highlights of visiting Tokyo is a visit to one of its most iconic landmarks, the TOKYO SKYTREE. This is the world’s tallest broadcasting tower at over 2000 feet. From its viewing platforms, visitors can see all of Tokyo and beyond from a bird’s eye view, and even Mount Fuji on clear days. The tower has two observation decks: the Tembo Deck is 1150 feet above ground level, while the Tembo Galleria is at 1500 feet. Both observation decks provide incomparable 360-degree views of the city and beyond.
First Class Shopping at TOKYO Solamachi
There are many exciting experiences to explore in the TOKYO SKYTREE such as its top-notch shopping and dining in the clouds. TOKYO Solamachi is a classy shopping center with over 300 high-end stores and restaurants at the base of the TOKYO SKYTREE. This is a true shopping mecca, offering pretty much anything you could wish for, from clothing and cosmetics to traditional Japanese souvenirs. It also provides a wide variety of entertainment options, including a planetarium and a beautiful aquarium.
Dining in the Clouds at Sky Restaurant 634
One experience not to miss is dining in the clouds at the Sky Restaurant 634, located at 1132 feet in the TOKYO SKYTREE which offers a fancy fusion of Japanese and French cuisine, blending French style with Japanese taste. Dining there is an incredible experience, combining the finest cuisine with a spectacular panoramic view of one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
Seeing the stunning sunsets is an unforgettable experience while dining after dark and taking in the tower’s nighttime illuminations is incredible as well. The light design is inspired by Japanese aesthetics and changes daily, with each pattern representing a different aspect of the area’s rich history.
Tobu Railway Asakusa Station
Kakidai
Nearby the TOKYO SKYTREE is the Tobu Railway Asakusa Station, a convenient hub located in the heart of Tokyo that connects travelers to many popular destinations throughout the Kanto region and beyond. It is conveniently located, just a leisurely walk from the TOKYO SKYTREE past beautiful landmarks scattered along the Sumida river.
TOKYO mizumachi and the SUMIDA RIVER WALK
The quickest way from TOKYO SKYTREE to the Asakusa Station is the SUMIDA RIVER WALK, a river crossing especially designed for pedestrians that takes visitors to Tokyo’s most iconic landmark in just ten minutes while providing stunning views of the Tokyo skyline.
Along the way you’ll want to visit Tokyo mizumachi, a unique commercial complex perfectly integrated with the surrounding park and waterscape.TOKYO mizumachi, located beneath the railway viaduct, is home to a variety of stores specializing in lifestyle and homeware items, as well as traditional Japanese confectionery and sweets.
Beyond Tokyo with Tobu’s Nikko Pass
While in Japan, travelers will want to visit one of the many tourist destinations north of Tokyo. The historic city of Nikko, located in the Tochigi prefecture, is home to some of Japan’s major shrines and temples, including the UNESCO World Heritage site Nikko Toshogu Shrine. This scenic retreat is surrounded by mountains waterfalls and hot springs as well as the Nikko National Park.
The NIKKO PASS is a convenient way to explore the charming Nikko area and entitles guests to numerous advantages and discounts when traveling between Asakusa and Nikko. The two-day NIKKO PASS World Heritage Area includes a round-trip train railway ticket to Nikko, unlimited train and bus transportation in the area, and discounts on various tourist facilities, such as the Tobu World Square and Edo Wonderland.
A Luxury Travel Experience on the SPACIA X
Tobu Railways has announced the SPACIA X Limited Express Train, which will connect Tobu Asakusa Station to Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen in Tochigi Prefecture beginning in July 2023.
With different seat variations, including private rooms, sofa seats, and lounge-type seats, and an exclusive cockpit-style suite at the far end of the train providing the best panoramic view, this high-end limited express train has a traditional yet contemporary design and caters to a wide range of travelers.
Japan has so much to offer the intrepid traveler. Tokyo makes an ideal base to explore this exciting destination with must-have experiences at the TOKYO SKYTREE to dine in the clouds while taking in the breathtaking vistas of the area. This along with shopping experiences at the TOKYO Solamach or TOKYO mizumachi make the visit to Tokyo complete. A side trip to Nikko for its temples, onsens, and nature ensures an unforgettable visit to Japan. Tobu Railway offers transportation in class and comfort from Tokyo to Nikko and beyond making your next visit to Japan even more enjoyable. ###
